Abstract
Research in health communication has shown that individually tailored health education materials are more effective than traditional or generic materials in producing changes in health-related behaviors. However, tailored materials have not been equally effective for all individuals. Because locus of control affects behavioral outcomes in other self-change interventions, its effect on individuals' responses to tailored messages is of particular interest. The present study examined differences in cognitive responses to tailored and non-tailored weight loss materials among 198 overweight individuals. Weight locus of control significantly interacted with study group (who received either tailored or non-tailored materials), suggesting that externals may respond to tailored health education materials with counter-arguments. Implications for the development and application of tailored health communication materials are discussed.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 393-403 |
| Number of pages | 11 |
| Journal | Health Education Research |
| Volume | 15 |
| Issue number | 4 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - 2000 |